Legacy FC signs Brazilian standout Leonardo Leite for fall debut

Legacy FC has added to its roster with a highly regarded judoka and Brazilian jiu-jitsu champion expected to debut with the promotion this fall.

Leonardo Leite (4-0) has signed with Legacy, promoter Mick Maynard confirmed to MMAjunkie. The promotion is planning a September debut for Leite, likely at Legacy FC 35.

Maynard said the deal with Leite calls for multiple fights under the Legacy FC banner.

Leite’s background is in judo, but he’s best known for his jiu-jitsu.

Leite is a three-time Brazilian national jiu-jitsu champion and twice won world titles in the sport in 1999 and 2000. The light heavyweight has been a mainstay in jiu-jitsu and judo competitions, but migrated to MMA in 2013.

So far, the transition has been a perfect one. Leite, from Rio de Janeiro, went 3-0 in 2013, including a submission win in his pro debut. And earlier this month, he picked up a submission win at Bitetti Combat 20 in Rio.

No opponent for Leite has been announced. Legacy FC 35 is expected to take place Sept. 26 in Tulsa, though a venue has not yet been announced, either.